Wow! It has been hot the past couple of weeks. Thank you to everyone who offered us water while hitting the doors. Today was another great day of listening to the voters. I spoke with a man in Texas Township who said we need more business people like me in Lansing. He said he supported me before, and he was happy to support me again! Thank you! It is getting harder for me to blog, and I do not always get them to my webmaster in a timely manner. I will do my best to blog when I can.

I spoke with some business owners in Texas Township about local concerns they have. They thanked me for my input and thoughtful analysis. I share their concerns of having safe, clean communities and job creation. They see opportunities out there to expand their businesses, but with the uncertain economic climate, they are in a holding pattern, unable to hire until the federal and state governments figure out budgets, taxes and regulations. They are frustrated with the inability of big government to help small family businesses. Burdensome regulations keep small business from entering the field and keeps us from having true competition, which is the American way. It is time to have only common sense, clear regulations on the books that really help the people - not old jargon and confusing rhetoric. If it does not make sense, we should not pass it!

I serve on the Portage City Council Sub Committee of Regional Cooperation. We had a productive meeting discussing short- and long-term strategies of meaningful regional cooperation. It was a great brainstorming session, and I am pleased to note that Portage has been working with other municipalities for years on various services and issues. We share fire equipment and personnel with Texas Township for various types of fires, resulting in cost savings for both fire departments. We are doing our part to keep government affordable and not a burden.

I was honored to be on the Jay Morris Show with Jim McKinney. Jim is a fun guy, and I was really impressed with the questions from the callers. Thank you! The questions were tough and specific. I really enjoy talking with voters about these types of issues. We need more of this type of dialogue. Thanks Jim! It was also great to meet Roger Taylor, who I had not met before. We talked about some great zoning issues in our respective communities, and I really appreciated his thoughtful insights.

More door to door! We knocked on many doors in several neighborhoods and it was a fun, very hot day. Thanks to my wonderful kids for helping and to Bob who drove in to help!

I started my day off with folks at the Michigan Political Leadership Program. I was invited to share my experiences with local government, why I am running, and other insights. It was fun to be in a room full of involved and interested people. I graduated from this program in 2000, and many of us graduates are involved at the grass roots level today. Email me if you want more information on this great program! We knocked on doors the rest of the day hitting all over from Prairie Ronde to Texas to Oshtemo to Kalamazoo Townships. A special thanks to Megan, Mary, Cassie and Carrie! Thanks for helping.

Americans For Prosperity sent out a press release applauding me for opposing environmental legislation that will increase taxes. Really, this about Cap n Trade. True environmental legislation does not allow companies to pollute if they pay a tax, which is the crux of Cap n Trade. I stand on my environmental record. As an elected official and Chair of the Kalamazoo County Environmental Health Advisory Committee, I have worked on true environmental issues - ones with a long lasting impact, not some meaningless resolution or ordinance that no one will ever read again. Just a small sampling of what I have done includes:

• Promoted county ordinance to rehabilitate methamphetamine-contaminated homes using science based and owner friendly policies. This county ordinance allows for formerly abandoned properties to be cleaned up and safe for use again.
• Ordinance to allow "windmill" type energy structures on homes in Portage.
• Worked for almost 2 years to update county sanitary code.
• Working with EHAC to find ways to educate community that phosphorous based fertilizer is not needed for regular use.
• Worked with property developers about development, preserving green space and having proper screening from neighbors.
• Working with West Lake regarding cleaning up sites of lake contamination.

Happy Independence Day!

We enjoyed a beautiful day at the Schoolcraft Parade. We enjoyed breakfast with the Lions Club then walked in the parade. It is always so fun to see how many people I know who are watching the parade. We ended our day volunteering at the Portage Fireworks. Nick and the kids did parking duty! I want to thank the veterans who have served us and who liberated our country to be a beacon of freedom and democracy.

Today was a blessed day. I met a retired Pastor who told me he has been praying for me the last two years. I felt so blessed and loved by God. Pastor John also donated to our campaign and told me that I am doing God’s work. Often during the campaign, we work hard and try to get our message out to voters. It is not often that a message is sent to us in return. Pastor John sent the message to us that our work is for a higher purpose. I have been called to serve others, and I have been fortunate to do it first in social work, and now today as a realtor and Portage City Councilwoman. God has a place for all of us. Thank you Pastor for letting me know that my place was on your doorstep today.

It is a beautiful day - perfect to remember those heroes who gave their lives for ours. We can never repay you except to promise to fight for freedom and to be the best we can be. Your legacy lives on through every one of us, and will work to leave this world a better place than when we found it. Thank you to the veterans who returned home. You endured so much and suffer still today. We cannot understand the depth of what you went through and what you carry with you now, but we are grateful that you heeded the call to serve. We respect your efforts, your bravery and your sacrifice. We honor you and you fallen today with parades, speeches and prayers. Today is a celebration of life- those who have lived, those who still live. Thank you for serving. We also celebrate and honor the families who gave their loved ones to serve. Your anguish is real, your sacrifice immeasurable. As a mother, I cannot imagine your pain. I can only thank you for supporting your loved one as they served for our country.

Another beautiful day of knocking on doors. Today we spent time in various parts of the district. We have also been spending time during the week, outreaching to voters. I spoke with a policeman who is concerned about the declining revenues, which often means layoffs. In Portage, we have planned appropriately and not had to lay off any employees. We are working to keep a focus on having strong public safety, which is crucial during down economic times. Each budget is harder to balance, but we have done the job again in Portage. We have become more efficient, outsourced where we can and our employees are doing an amazing job.

In Portage, the council has done our work and will be voting on the budget soon. It amazes me that the state is again mishandling the budget process and is likely to not have a budget passed by summer break. Both schools and many local townships and cities start their budgets on July 1st. We will not know until October what revenue sharing we will receive. This is a shame.

My husband, Nick, and I attended the Race For The Cure event. It was an overwhelming site seeing the beautiful women who have overcome and struggled with breast cancer. And yes, men can get it too. It was honor to honor them, and I appreciate all they have done. My husband’s employer, Perrigo, had a team there, and it was great to support them. Thank you everyone for fighting against this terrible disease.

It was another great day for door to door. The voters keep telling me that our message of job creation and reducing the burdens on taxpayers is the only way to go. One conversation really struck me. I was talking with a woman about in her late 40’s or early 50’s. She has been laid off for over 6 months. She was frustrated that some people are calling for tax increases to fund government. She said, “Margaret, I can barely afford my house payment, and my tax bill is due soon. How am I supposed to pay for more taxes? I can’t hang on too much longer.” She is right. It will take job creation to help people get back on their feet. President Ronald Reagan said, “The best social program is a job.”

Filing day has passed! I am honored to have earned the Republican nomination for State Representative. I do not have a primary opponent in August, although that will not reduce our efforts or work. We take this race and the state of Michigan very seriously. I want to earn your support and your vote! Thank you for your support!

Tonight was our council meeting where we voted to enter into the Portage Media Network consortium. Merging our cable access program into PMN is a win for everyone involved. We are able to reduce the cost, increase services to all members and be part of a collaborative effort. Merging government services can work if all partners receive a benefit and it is truly collaborative. This took over 2 years to do, but it was a great process and worth the time. Thank you to all involved.

Today was a great day for door to door! Despite the rain, cold and wind, we canvassed the district. We had great response from Parchment to Texas Township. The voters responded to our message of job creation, government reform and low taxes. It is essential that we have elected officials who will stand up for the people and represent them. Many voters already knew who I was and pledged their support. It is a privilege to earn your vote.

Today I met with a business owner in Oshtemo. We talked about how Michigan seems to only want to bring new business into our state or rescue businesses leaving the state. The focus has not been on the business owners who pay the bills and provide good jobs. We share the vision to equal the playing field for all businesses- they all are valuable and we should not be cutting taxes for a select few while ignoring the others. The term for investing in existing businesses is economic gardening. We need to nurture and grow what is already here. If we constantly are hunting in the woods while ignoring what is in our back yard, we are wasting valuable resources and risking jobs. We need to have a two prong approach: take care of existing businesses and recruit others who want the same care. Let’s grow our economic garden!

Today I attended the National Day of Prayer Ceremony in Portage at City Hall. It was a great time to reflect on our nation and pray for our communities. We prayed for our leaders- national down to local. We prayed for our schools and educators; we prayed for the media and the hope they will promote positive messages. We prayed for our military and their safety. We prayed for our families. I pray that Michigan can turn our economy around and create jobs so families can make ends meet.

I ended the day at our daughter’s swim meet. It was nice to see fellow Portage parents as we cheered our kids on.

It was busy day of door to door. We received great reception. One voted asked where I stand on a part time legislature. I am in favor of a part time legislature. In 2007, I joined with the Kalamazoo Chamber of Commerce and worked to gather signatures to place this on the ballot. I would like the citizens to have their voices heard and see this on the ballot. We can get the job done with a part time legislature.

Other voters recognized my work on the Portage City Council and appreciated what I have done. It has been my honor to serve the citizens of Portage.

It was another busy day. We had a long but productive budget meeting in Portage. Times are tough, and everyone-including government- must do their part. As a councilmember, I am committed to balancing our budget without gimmicks, one time fixes or threats. We will work to provide services in a professional manner. We have worked to downsize government to reflect the declining revenues. We do not need to use scare tactics or threats to balance the budget. It is our responsibility to make the hard decisions and balance the budget. I have balanced the budget in Portage, and I am ready to make the hard decisions to balance the budget in Lansing.

Today at our Council of Government meeting, the municipalities present all agreed that working together for an atmosphere to retain and create jobs is important to us. We will be partnering together to bring more jobs to our area.

I ended the day at a reception where the topic of the night was job growth and helping our state and region to be successful. I spoke with a number of supporters and business owners who agree that the job at hand is difficult, but it can be done by those willing to do the work. I am honored that I have been recognized as one who has worked hard to bring jobs to our region, and I have helped business owners in our community expand to create more jobs. My track record is supportive of job creation, lower taxes and small government.

I started my day off at the Alamo Little League Opening Ceremonies. The families were receptive to our message of jobs. They understand that only jobs will turn our state around. It was then on to door to door. We were in Texas Township and Portage and had great response. Jobs is still the number one issue of the day. Thank you to all of our volunteers who helped.

I had a busy and productive day. I spent a good portion of my day at the Michigan Right To Life Legislative Day. We heard an inspiring message from several people whose message was that every life matters. Every life is important, and we all have value. Our uniqueness is what makes our country great.

I had a great lunch at Portage Central Elementary School. It was VIP day for lunch, and I shared lunch with my 9 year old cousin and his friends. We talked a lot, and it was fun to be able to hear about why they like school and what they want to be when they grow up. I hope that Michigan is committed to keeping our youth here. We need a diverse job force, and Michigan must turn itself around to be ready for the next generation.

I started my day at the South Portage Little League Opening Ceremonies. Then, it was a great day for door to door. It rained near the end of the day, but we were able to finish in time. Voters want real change and they appreciated the experience I bring. Thank you to everyone who helped and to those who pledged their votes!

Busy day today. Met with clients, went to the Portage City Budget meeting and ended my day at the Kalamazoo Chamber’s annual dinner. It was great to be able to talk with business leaders and owners. Bill Parfet, Bill Johnston and Steve MacMillan spoke about the need to turn our state around. They talked about the unintended consequences of the Health Care Reform Bill and shared a passion for electing leaders who will bring about the kind of positive change we need. It was great to listen to their advice.

I filed my official paperwork today. My name will be on the ballot. I attended various community events, worked with clients and talked with concerned citizens. We also released a press release with some of our endorsements. Thank you everyone who is supporting me. I appreciate your help. Go to our In The News section

Started my day at a coffee. People are fed up and want change. Do my blogs seem repetitive? If so, it is because everywhere I go, voters are demanding accountability and positive change. They want jobs, they want a better future. They are fed up.

I attended the Eagle Forum Training and presented on how to get involved in the process. I spoke about being an activist, a party member (of any political party), an elected official. I talked about all the different ways one can impact the process and how important it is for everyone to get involved. I was also recognized for my efforts in bringing transparency to the City of Portage by placing our checkbook online. (You can find in our council agendas).

We also hit doors in Oshtemo and Portage. Again, we had great reception. I enjoy going door to door and meeting with the voters. Their concerns are unanimous: they want job.

Tax Day! I hope everyone filed their taxes. I attended many meetings and events today. I also had a closing where I helped a buyer buy a great home in Portage!

I attended the Tea Party Rally where personal liberty and freedom were highlighted. My campaign manager, Brendan Cole spoke and was quoted in the Kalamazoo Gazette: “I’m outraged. This government is spending and spending with no end in sight,” said Brendan Cole, 22, a Western Michigan University senior who spoke during the rally. “Who will be left to pay the bill? My generation?”

We need to pay our bills as we go- the Dave Ramsey way. We cannot fix our current problems and push off payment until some time in the future. That jeopardizes our future, our stability and our national security. Hard decisions do need to made- by people of all parties and affiliations. This is not a “party” thing- it is a “big” thing. We must address our deepening debt now before we can no longer see and end to our problem.

Started my day with an early meeting at City Hall. I had a busy day meeting with various citizens from the county. We discussed issues at hand and talked about how to resolve them. It is clear- the voters want someone with a record for REAL reform- not just empty words. I am honored that they recognized my efforts at addressing tough issues and finding solutions.

Long council meeting- it ended around midnight. We held a couple public meetings. One was on a rezoning request. The developer and residents were able to find some common ground. I was quoted in the Kalamazoo Gazette: “I applaud the different parties coming together to make a reasonable compromise,” said Councilwoman Margaret O’Brien. “I think they have met the conditions involving traffic, the environment, having the least amount of impact.” It was a true victory- both sides listening to each other and finding reasonable compromise!

Had a busy day meeting with constituents about concerns in Portage. We discussed some issues coming before council the next day and agreed we all need to work together. I really enjoy talking with the citizens of Portage- they fuel my fire to serve.

Started the morning off with the Michigan Federation of College Republicans. I spoke about the importance of their involvement- youth bring an energy to the table that every campaign needs. We need young people to be involved and to share their views- they are our future. We must work in harmony with people of all ages.

Afterwards, I knocked on doors in Texas Township. The voters- regardless of age- care about JOBS! They embraced my message of jobs, smaller government and lower taxes. We all are feeling the pinch in our budgets. We must make short term sacrifices for long term growth. I ended the day excited about the support I received on the campaign trail.

Great fundraiser tonight! The hosts did a knock out job and we brought in many contributions. My supporters made it clear: it is about jobs and how we can create an environment for job growth. Small business accounts for the majority of jobs. We love our big companies and employers, but we also need the small business community. They take care of us and employ our family, friends and neighbors. I am committed to creating the right environment for job growth.

We had great discussions about job growth and there were many business owners there. Thanks to my hosts Jeff Mohney, Dr. Craig Mohney, Dr. Russell Mohney, Tom Little, Mary Balkema and Bonnie Landrum.

I met today with Ron Kitchens of Southwest Michigan First. He offered great advice, and we talked about how to continue economic growth in our region. I appreciate Ron’s willingness to work with the community and for his willingness to support local leaders.

Today has been full of meetings and phone calls. In several meetings, our task was to discuss how we can positively impact our state. It became clear that it will take a real commitment to make hard decisions and to do the research. Not every good idea can be implemented, but hopefully that good idea will turn into a better idea that will be implemented.

Happy Early Easter!

I was asked today when I work- I work all day, seven days a week. As a self employed business owner, I must adapt to my clients. And, when you add my civic duties and campaign tasks to the plate, I must work many hours every day to do the job.

When serving you and my clients, I bring enthusiasm, commitment and integrity to the table. I am committed to serving.

I was speaking with a friend the other day, and he commented how well prepared and thoughtful I am when making decisions. He said not everyone brings that to the table- especially in the political arena. That is unfortunate- we should expect every elected official to be ready and prepared before we vote. I work long hours, but I should- I asked for the job. And, I am asking you to vote for me so I can continue serving you in Lansing

I taught two Junior Achievement classes this week. I have been teaching about needs vs wants, families, jobs, education and communities. The kids, as always, enlighten me.

The topics are the same you and I are dealing with- our needs and wants- how do we pay for them? Which come first? How do we choose? When talking about a dog, most of the kids said it was a want. One young girl said it was need and when asked why, she replied, “If you have no friends, you need a dog to be your friend.”

We all have different ways of thinking but we all agree that we must have more jobs- and not just any jobs- good jobs. We must create a better environment for jobs to be created. This includes lower taxes, eliminating needless regulations and promoting a job friendly environment. We all want our state to succeed. I am committed to doing the work.

Over the last 7 years, I have fought for transparency. In 2004, our entire agenda packets were placed online for the public to view. In the following years, we had more materials put online, making it easier for the public to find. In 2008, I asked our city manager what he thought about placing our check register online. He loved the idea, and our check register is now included in our agenda packets.

A couple months ago, we were recognized by the Kalamazoo Citizens For Responsible Government as 1 of 2 governmental units as receiving 4 out of 4 stars for transparency. John Gisler, the chair, recognized me for my efforts on transparency. Mayor Pete Strazdas recognized Councilwoman Claudette Reid and me as two people who championed transparency in Portage before we ever held public office.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Last night I attended the Kalamazoo County Commission Meeting and supported the Quinn-Zull Resolution to withdraw elective abortions from the Health Care Plan. This would not have impacted any deemed necessary to save the life of the mother nor affected those pregnant by rape or incest. The federal government already prohibits the use of taxpayer money for elective abortions. In 1988, this was on the ballot in Michigan, and 57% of the voters passed a law stating elective abortions could not be part of Medicaid. This resolution would have been consistent with current state and federal laws. While the resolution failed 7-10, it was inspiring to hear the stories of women who overcame the odds.

This is especially meaningful for me, as today I celebrate my 9th wedding anniversary. Shortly after marrying, my husband adopted our son, Tyjon. I had been a single mother, and I worked hard to create a normal, positive life for my son. My husband completed the circle of our family, and with our daughter Samantha (my step-daughter), we are a complete family. I am truly blessed. Thank you to everyone who has supported me through those tough early years and for embracing my husband and daughter into your life.

Today I walked in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade with my fellow Irish Americans! It was fun, although the wind was a little chilly. St. Patrick’s Day is a fun holiday where everyone can be Irish for a day. We can also look book at our heritage, and we can thank our ancestors for bravely starting off in a new world, so unlike their own

Tonight I went to the Portage Firefighters vs Detroit Lions Charity Basketball Game. The proceeds went to benefit MDA and Burn Camp. It is amazing to see how local business owners and citizens stepped up to donate to such a worthy cause. There were a lot of laughs as we watched the relaxed game. It was an enjoyable event with our citizens. I was able to speak with our firefighters and thank them for raising money. They were happy to do it. Thanks Pam for inviting me!

I got a phone call from a citizen today. She thanked me for my comments about focusing on jobs last night at our meeting. She agreed that we need to help people make money by getting ready of needless regulations. Everyday people like you and me get it- let people have the freedom to be entrepreneurs and let them work. Jobs are all valuable. I am confident we can find a way to let people expand their jobs at home while maintaining the quality of the neighborhoods. Thank you Rose Mary for calling! My comments were in the Kalamazoo Gazette today: “This is all about jobs,” said Councilwoman Margaret O’Brien, who works out of her home as a Realtor. “Times have changed and more people are working out of their homes out of necessity. You have to be careful you’re not shutting down entrepreneurship.” It is important to note that I do have a home office, but I also have an office at RE/MAX Advantage, which is the firm I work with. I am fortunate to be able to respond to my clients at my office and at my home office.

I just got back from our city council meeting. It went past 10. It was a long- but good- night. We had lively discussion about Home Occupation Permits. I focused my efforts on helping local citizens get jobs- we should not burden them with intrusive regulations and invasion of privacy. The current ordinance was written before the technology age- it no longer is practical for today’s environment where many people work from home in some manner. We need to rewrite these regulations and get with the times. We should not penalize entrepreneurs for working at home.

Today I was speaking with local business owners. I asked them what they would do if I gave them $10,000 right now. They all said they would re-invest it into their business. One said they would make their part time employee full time. Another said they would create a part-time position. Yet another said they would remodel their building and invest in new equipment. All of these things would turn our economy around. The business owners want to invest money- they just need Lansing to stop picking favorites and reduce the burdens on business. Small businesses create the majority of our jobs in America- let’s help them.

I also privileged to be able to speak at a Southwest Michigan Tea Party event. Here is a link to the Southwest Michigan Tea Party video of the event. As I keep saying- it is about jobs!

I was honored today to help with the Alternatives Care Center’s auction. I worked the microphone asking for bids for our silent auction. A pecan pie was sold for $105! I also did a little shopping, finding the perfect baby gift for my soon to be little cousin. It was wonderful to see the hundreds of people who donated their money- and time- to such a wonderful cause. Thank you Dave Bos for leading this worthy organization and fighting for the lives of the unborn. Thank you Alternatives staff and volunteers for serving so loyally. It was a wonderful evening!

Today I showed some homes to a wonderful young couple. Despite the weather, we looked for that perfect home. They have been saving money and want to make sure they do not buy too much house. They told me that the Home buyer credit is not a factor- they will not buy a house just to get the credit. They want a nice home they can afford- they don’t care if it takes 2 weeks, 2 months or 6 months. They are very wise to think long term about their finances. As a state, Michigan lawmakers need to take the same approach- budget conservatively and wisely. Be careful with our money and do not make decisions based on short term gimmicks or incentives- or else we could end up with too much of a house that we cannot afford.

I went to the Taste of the Chamber. As usual, they threw a great event. It was great seeing so many people that I have not seen in a while. Nothing is better than good friends and good food! Thank you to all the business owners who pledged their support. I appreciate your willingness to support my campaign! Jobs was the topic of the night, of course- what can we do to grow jobs? It comes down to a couple items- lower taxes and avoid burdensome regulations. Government does not create jobs but can create the right environment for business owners and entrepreneurs to create jobs

Today we had the Youth Mayor/Council Exchange Day. Students from Portage Northern and Portage Central High Schools learned about student government. They also were able to run part of our meeting. It was a fun day, and I am confident that the next generation will be ready to lead our community when it is their turn. Thank you to everyone who supported this effort!

It is always such fun to volunteer at church. I work in the 4-5 year old room, and I enjoy working with the kids. They make my evening so happy- signing and dancing to great music. I also enjoy working the other volunteers who are so dedicated. Much thanks to Joe- our room leader!

Today I went to our monthly Kalamazoo County Environmental Health Advisory Council Meeting. I was honored to be re-elected as Chair. Being environmentally minded is not an idea just for one political party. We all want to have a healthy world where our future generations can enjoy life. My focus is to address issues with practical solutions- not feel good resolutions or ordinances with no real meaning. We can have a positive impact on our environment through hands on work. I enjoy this committee and feel honored to have served on it for nearly 7 years, with the last few years in leadership. Thank you EHAC for trusting me to lead our group.

It was a great night at the annual Caring Network banquet. I enjoyed the Bishop’s talk and the Mardi Gras themed event. The food was delicious and it was a great way to raise money for young families facing unexpected pregnancies. Many people do not know the resources out there for the young women choosing life for their babies. Caring Network offers parenting support, connection with resources, education and life planning and a listening ear- all designed to help the parents be self-sufficient and focused on creating a bright future. I headed over to the Homebuilder Membership meeting- it was great to see my peers and listen to the economic trends.

The speaker shared that while the nation’s economy appears to be recovering, Michigan is not. He shared that we must find practical ways to deal with this- tax increases are not going to cut it. I am energized to make a difference for our community!

A great way to start off the week- at a Ducks Unlimited event! It was great to see friends and meet new people. Preserving hunting land is important. Many people do not realize that the hunting community cares deeply about maintaining land and caring for our animals.

I got to pick the winning number for the grand prize. It was a lot of fun- although my friends were disappointed I did not pick their number. Thanks Casey for letting me draw the winning ticket!